Guadeloupe is a land of treasures, including Les Saintes, which gives its name to the islands of Les Saintes. If you opt to rent a catamaran in Guadeloupe, you should not miss this real paradise, which is an archipelago of nine islets, of which only two are inhabited: Terre-de-Haut and Terre-de-Bas, while the other seven are uninhabited: the islet of Cabrit, Grand-Îlet, Coche, Augustins, Redonde, Pâté and Roches percées. As fishing grounds, les Saintes are considered "one of the most beautiful bays in the world" and deserve their popularity. Discover this real little paradise where history, untouched vegetation, tropical climate and traditions blend together.
A bit of history
The Iles des Saints ("Islands of the Saints"), also known as Les Saintes, are an archipelago marked by history. The archipelago of Les Saintes in Guadeloupe was originally inhabited by Indian tribes. On the other hand, no population lived on the islands Les Saintes in Guadeloupe due to the absence of a water source. Only a few people like the Arawak came to hunt and fish in this archipelago. It was in 1493, during his second expedition to America, that Christopher Columbus discovered the archipelago and called it "Los Santos" in reference to the feast of All Saints. The strategic position of the archipelago on the Caribbean routes led to the alternation of the French and English occupation after numerous battles, the most famous of which took place in 1782 and took the name of "The Battle of the Saints". The remains of this tumultuous past are still visible in the different parts of the island. Today, the Saintes are integrated into the department of Guadeloupe and are a real "melting pot" of different cultures.
The two main islands
The Saintes in Guadeloupe are made up of several islets, of which only two are inhabited: Terre-de Haut and Terre-de-Bas. You will fall in love with these two small islands full of authenticity, each of which has its own strong identity.
Terre-de-Haut: also named "small Rio", the island of Terre-de-Haut is the best known and most visited of the islands of Les Saintes in Guadeloupe. Located in the extreme south of Guadeloupe, Terre-de-Haut is famous for its colorful houses, the Pain de Sucre, a low and rounded mountain, and the "torment of love" (torment d'amour), a cake of coconut, banana or guava. When you visit Terre-de-Haut Island, do not forget to visit Fort Napoléon and its museum, the bay of Marigot, the Grande Anse beach. The charm of the local population, the cusine specialties and the breathtaking scenery.
Terre-de-Bas: much more discreet and less touristy than the nearby Terre-de-Haut, the island of Terre-de-Bas is ideal if you are looking for calm and relax. You will be surprised by the hospitality of the inhabitants and their joy of living. During your stay on the island, you will enjoy one of the most paradisiacal beaches in the world, Grande-Anse, discover the village of Petite-Anse with its traditions and its unconditional charm and also discover the typical hat of the islands which is a salako made of Indian wood.
The beaches of Les Saintes
Les Saintes in Guadeloupe are best known for their paradisiacal and breathtaking beaches. Here is a list of the most beautiful beaches that you should definitely visit when renting a boat in Guadeloupe:
Pain de Sucre beach: located on the island of Terre-de-Haut, this white sand beach is one of the wonders of the Saintes. It is one of the favourite moorings for yachtsmen who appreciate its accessible and quiet side. The water is so clear that the beach is the perfect place for snorkeling: you will be amazed by the richness of the seabed and the real natural aquarium offered by the beach of Pain de Sucre. Relawing under coconut palms, nestled on the golden sand in front of the translucent sea, you will feel like you are in a lost paradise.
Pompierre beach: once called "pont pierre", this beautiful beach of clear sand is distinguished by its lagoon with turquoise waters. Located at the level of the bay, it is ideal for swimming because the sea is calm and shallow. On this beach you can meet the famous cabris, a small goat very popular in Guadeloupe, or some local iguana. Don't worry, these animals won't hurt you.
Grande-Anse Beach: this beach overlooking the Atlantic Ocean stretches for more than a kilometer of fine, clear sand. Unfortunately, you can only take long walks along the beach, as it is forbidden to swim because of the strong current of the sea. This does not detract from the beauty of this beach, which offers a magical and breathtaking view of the island of Dominica and the island of Marie Galante. If you love nature and animals, you can have the privilege to see the laying of eggs or the birth of turtles between May and July: a unique moment that must take place in total respect of the animal.
Marigot Bay: this typical cove stretches over 100 meters of sand. Fishermen love it and they enjoy this magical bay: you can see them return with the catch of the day. It is an authentic, quiet and very charming beach, where you can relax away from everyone.
Les Saintes in Guadeloupe is one of the most beautiful bays in the world and it is an essential destination for your next yacht charter in Guadeloupe. Among historical visits, discoverying exceptional fauna and flora, Les Saintes is a privileged destination where man and nature coexist in perfect harmony.